Bacillary endophthalmitis: 4 cases

Purpose: Bacillary endophthalmitis occurring after penetrating ocular traum a with an intraocular foreign body is always associated with poor visual ou tcome. Bacilli cause fulminant infection associated with tissue damage in t he intraocular structures. Case reports : Our series consisted of four patients with penetrating ocula r trauma and endophthalmitis caused by B. cereus or B. licheniformis. Three eyes ultimately developed phtisis. Only on eye recovered good vision (2.5/ 10 P4). Discussion: Recommended early treatment includes topical, subconjunctival, parenteral antibiotics. A review of the literature indicates that intravitr eal antibiotic infusion is crucial for sufficient concentration to control infection. Early vitrectomy is recommended in the management of endophthalm itis. Vitreous and intraocular foreign bodies should be cultured to identif y pathogens and ascertain antibiotic susceptibilities.